Definitions
adj. failing to achieve the intended result
徒劳的；无效的
adj. too proud of your appearance or achievements
自负的；虚荣的
Example
We made a vain attempt to repair the umbrella.
我们试着修伞，却白费了力气。
Without affordable public transport, campaigns to reduce private car use may prove to be vain efforts.
如果没有价格可负担的公共交通，减少私家车使用的宣传活动可能只是徒劳。
Collocations
- a vain attempt
- in vain
- a vain hope
Word family
- vainly (adv.)
- vanity (n.)
Synonyms
- futile
- conceited
Antonyms
- effective
- modest
Usage tip
in vain作状语，表示“徒劳地”；vain也可指虚荣。
FAQ
- What does vain mean?
- failing to achieve the intended result too proud of your appearance or achievements
- How is vain pronounced?
- UK /veɪn/, US /veɪn/. Use the audio buttons above to listen.
